The newly-formed Queensland Small Business Advisory Council (QSBAC) met for the first time today to discuss its direction and the issues facing the state’s small business sector.

Minister for Tourism, Major Events, Small Business and the Commonwealth Games Jann Stuckey chaired the meeting and said it was an opportunity to provide a clear course of direction to the QSBAC’s new members, who represent key industry peak bodies and small business operators.

“Today’s meeting was about setting the agenda for how we are going to tackle the issues facing our small businesses over the next 12 months,” Ms Stuckey said.

“There are almost 412,000 small businesses in Queensland. They employ around half of all private sector workers, and the QSBAC will ensure government is aware of any issues that may impact on the way small businesses operate.

“We want our business sector to grow and flourish, and the QSBAC will ensure the concerns of small business are brought to our attention.”

Ms Stuckey said the government recognised the vital role small businesses play in generating economic activity and employment across the state.

“Already we have guaranteed that all government contracts worth less than $1 million dollars will be paid within 30 days and we have committed to reducing red tape by 20 per cent,” she said.

“We are also increasing the payroll exemption tax threshold from $1 million to $1.6 million over six years.”

Chaired by Minister Stuckey, the council members are:

•Tony Axford, Business Enterprise Centre Ipswich Region Business Manager
•Nick Behrens, General Manager – Advocacy, Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland
•Jemima Dunn, Manager of Policy and Public Affairs, Australian Industry Group Queensland
•Margot Richardson, SME Committee Chair, CPA Australia (Qld)
•Ralph Edwards, State President, Franchise Council of Australia Queensland Division
•Shannon Scott, owner-operator of TASTE South Burnett enterprise in Kingaroy
•Cheryl Springer, business owner and President of the Pine Rivers Chamber of Commerce.
All members of the advisory council are appointed for one year.

Businesses can access Queensland Government services through the recently enhanced business portal at www.business.qld.gov.au.